Lawmakers discuss public meth registry

February 01, 2007|WSBT-TV Report

INDIANAPOLIS--The Indiana General Assembly is considering a public registry for meth offenders. It would include anyone convicted of manufacturing, delivering or financing the production of methamphetamine.

Steve Stogdill supports the idea of a registry. Police busted a meth lab next door to his home on State Road 23 in St. Joseph County in September. Â?I was surprised that was going on there, but frustrated, disappointed,Â? notes Stogdill.

Police arrested two people in the meth bust, and the idea of a registry that would make their crime public pleases neighbors. Kevin Bailey says, Â?I think it's a good idea. I mean, we had no idea that one was down the road until the police were there. That was total surprise."

With just a click of the computer mouse, the registry, much like the sex offender registry, would let people see who's committing meth crimes and where their dangerous labs have been located.

Stogdill remarks, Â?I have three kids, and I should have the right to know those kind of things are going on in proximity to where I'm raising three kids."

It's also billed as a tool for landlords, so they can check the history of potential tenants. Palo Davis owns four rental properties in South Bend. He says, Â?I think it would really be a useful tool in being able to make sure you're not having someone around you whoÂ?s going to harm people around you or your house.Â?

Those against the bill say people convicted of meth crimes have already served their time, and it would make it harder for them to find jobs and places to live.

Illinois, Minnesota, Montana and Tennessee already have similar registries.